Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehabilitation services with the same commitment you might normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services part-time each day or several days weekly. This can be very helpful for those who have just completed an even more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For a person with more significant addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab centers which offer rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehabilitation option.